While living outside of Washington in another town close by, I could reflect on some of the iconic places in my hometown. There were many, but only a few stood out: the Pamlico River, the Washington Yacht & Country Club, the Washington Daily News, and yes, last but certainly not least, Main Street!

You may ask why Main Street?

Downtown in any city is the heart of a city or region and will always serve as the gateway to the county it is in. On Main Street, memories exist of the good times and a place everyone wanted to go to either shop or socialize. In most small towns in the 1960s, memories began to fade and were exactly that — memories. Cities were growing and expanding, thus came shopping malls and big box stores from outside the city/county. This outward movement or sprawling effect (called that by many) toward the suburbs brought changes to many small towns across America that halted the growth of downtown America. Some towns doubled in square miles.

This would leave historic buildings unattended and big chain stores (Rose’s, etc.) were left empty and unoccupied. Luckily, many small independent stores owned by local merchants stayed to keep the vibrancy and sustainability. This, aided by the reinvestment strategies of the 1980s, once again spurned growth in some small downtown areas. Some saw an opportunity to seek urban lifestyle and a chance to invest in old buildings at a rock-bottom price. Many buildings were purchased by people seeking an opportunity to own a building in the central business district.

With the help of the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Main Street program assisting in this resurgence, many have begun to thrive once again. In 1964, 25 percent of the old buildings in the South were demolished, taking away a small town’s character. With the hard work of many people (Washington Harbor District Alliance), Main Street has survived. We have said in past articles that downtowns are icons and powerful symbols for a town, and often contain their landmarks, distinguishing features and unique neighborhoods. We can see many old buildings that still have advertisement painted on the sides and are now worn out by Mother Nature. These are now striving businesses that now see revitalization efforts as a friend.

To me, downtown may not be what it used to be, but it is a heck of a lot better than most! It still has vibrancy and sustainability because of the vision of caring people.

Thank you! It is our responsibility as citizens to turn and help these people keep it solvent. We all have memories, and we must help our youth attain memories of their own that they can relish.

Please take some time before Christmas to visit our local merchants and keep your money local to help your friends have the best fourth quarter they can have. Also, remember the reason for this joyous season and why we have it. Please always remember to shop, dine and play in beautiful Washington, N.C., and if you get time … take a walk with the H-Rob!

Harold Robinson is the executive director of the Washington Harbor District Alliance.